It is very important to practice and use your baby carriers safely, as a child’s life is important beyond measure and should be safeguarded at all costs.
Please follow the TICKS of babywearing at all times.
A baby carrier should mimic how you would hold a baby in your arms. A normal in-arms holding position is fairly snug to your chest and somewhat close to your face ("Close Enough to Kiss"). Babywearing advocates have been teaching about the importance of correct newborn positioning for years and warning against the use of slings that do not allow for safe wearing positions.
Here are some important guidelines to remember when wearing an infant:
- Check to ensure that your baby is not curled up tightly in a chin-to-chest position; this compresses your baby's airway. Making sure there is a fingers' width or two between their chin and chest is a good guide.
- Make sure your baby's back is straight and supported.
- Monitor your child at all times. Make sure nothing is obstructing their face.
- Be aware of how your movements affect the baby: avoid any bumping or jarring motions.